LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The Rauch Planetarium at the University of Louisville will close permanently.
UofL President Gerry Bradley announced the closure in a letter Thursday, according to our partners at Louisville Business First. Bradley also said the school will permanently close the Gheens Science Hall.Â
"The decision not to reopen the planetarium is a difficult but final one for the university," Bradley wrote. "We understand and acknowledge that it is a disappointing outcome for some on our campus and in our community, but it is consistent with our plan to make financial choices that align with our strategic plan and support our entire campus community and not just a segment of it."
The planetarium closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and never reopened. Bradley said that although it has "significant history on our campus and in our community," it has been operating at a loss for several years and the university subsidized its operation each year.
"The cost of reopening the facility — which needs a significant investment in new equipment — is not one the university is able to justify," Bradley said. "UofL has tried to secure external partners/donors to underwrite the expenses involved in the planetarium's operation but has not been successful."
Throughout the years, the planetarium has been used for classes, public events and laser-light shows.
Equipment will be repurposed or sold. Bradley said the university would "conduct a strategic assessment of the site to determine its best use going forward."
Copyright 2026 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.
